**********************************************
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a confirmed case of Legionnaires' Disease.
The case involved a 53-year-old man living in Kowloon City. He has a known history of diabetes and hypertension. He had developed fever, cough and chills since January 31 and was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital on Saturday (February 6). He is now in critical condition.
A urine test revealed that he had been infected with Legionella bacteria.
CHP's investigation showed that the patient had recently travelled to Shenzhen. His home contacts were asymptomatic.
This is the third case of Legionnaires' Disease reported this year. Thirty-seven cases were reported in 2009, 13 in 2008 and 11 in 2007.
Information on Legionnaires' Disease and advice on prevention can be found on the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Monday, February 8, 2010
Issued at HKT 19:30
NNNN
